Keyboard with improved lateral region

ABSTRACT

A keyboard having an input region that provides a set of input elements designed to complement a separate pointing device such as a computer mouse. These input elements enable both the dominant and non-dominant hand to work easily together to perform various functions, which in turn, makes “consumption” and “composition” tasks more efficient. The input region may be spaced laterally from the alphanumeric or “QWERTY” section of the keyboard. The elements include a scrolling member, first and second groups of keys, and an application switching device. The scrolling member may take the form of a rotatable member. The rotatable member may have an asymmetric outer profile and/or be frustum-shaped. The first group of keys preferably includes a Back key and a Forward key. The first group of keys and the scrolling member make performing “consumption” tasks more efficient. The second group of keys preferably includes a Cut key, a Copy key, and a Paste key. The application switching device is preferably configured to provide a command, when actuated, to move between open applications. The application switching device may be independently-actuable, and/or dedicated and labeled as an application switching device. Additionally, the application switching device may be movable for actuation in opposing directions. Exemplary embodiments of the application switching device include a toggle switch, a rotatable dial, a laterally slidable member, and one or two keys. The second group of keys, application switching device and the scrolling member make performing “composition” tasks more efficient.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/***,***, entitled Keyboard with Improved Numeric Section; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/***,***, entitled Keyboard with ImprovedFunction and Editing Sections; and U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/***,***, entitled Input Device Including a Wheel Assembly forScrolling an Image in Multiple Directions, all of which have been filedsimultaneously herewith and are commonly assigned with the presentapplication. These applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention generally relates to keyboards for enteringdata into text and office systems such as computers. More specifically,the present invention relates to a keyboard having an improved lateralinput region for increasing the efficiency of consumption andcomposition of information used in computer activities.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] People use computers for many different activities. Manyactivities commonly performed by computer users may be considered as“consumption” activities. Other activities commonly performed bycomputer users may be considered as “composition” activities.Consumption activities are activities where the user typically reads,listens to, searches for, locates, and/or “gathers” information from oneor more sources. For example, consumption activities include browsingthe Internet, or otherwise viewing information on screen, such asviewing spreadsheets or reading e-mail, reports, documents, or othertext and images. Consumption activities are commonly performed when theuser is browsing or searching web pages and databases. When performingthese activities, it is common to use “Back” and “Forward” commands,scroll within an open document, and/or switch between open applicationsfor multi-tasking or for referencing or sharing information betweendifferent documents. However, existing keyboards have not maximized auser's ability to perform these consumption activities.

[0004] Composition activities are activities performed by computer userswhen editing, creating, and/or composing text, web pages, spreadsheets,video or audio data, or other forms of data that can be presented oncomputer display. During these activities, it is common to highlight andedit various data portions, switch between multiple documents andapplications, and/or scroll within existing documents. It is also commonto take pieces of information or data from one document and put theminto another document—either of the same document type or a differentdocument type. Similarly, existing keyboards have not maximized a user'sability to perform these composition activities.

[0005] Additionally, to perform consumption and composition activities,a user commonly uses a keyboard in conjunction with a separate pointingdevice such as a computer mouse. However, there has been littleimprovement to existing keyboards for increasing the combined efficiencyof a keyboard and a separate pointing device. For example, manykeyboards are designed in a manner that requires the user to change handpositions frequently between the keyboard and the separate pointingdevice to perform many common tasks. This, in turn, results in increaseddistractions and reduced focus when performing various consumption andcomposition activities.

[0006] Further, interactions between keyboards and separate pointingdevices for performing many computer tasks commonly place much of theburden on the dominant hand, typically the right hand, thattraditionally controls the mouse or other pointing device. This canoverburden the dominant hand to an extent that prevents the maximizationof efficiency. Further, many existing short commands are performed byreaching for and engaging the separate pointing device (e.g., to “copy”a selected item). However, the step of reaching and engaging theseparate pointing device reduces efficiency if the activities just priorto and just following engaging the pointing device are typing on thekeyboard—as can commonly be the case.

[0007] Additionally, when using a computer, users will commonly switchbetween open applications or “window”. An open application or window isan active program and/or open file. To perform this task, users commonlyreach for a mouse or another separate pointing device, move the cursorto a desired location positioned over a graphical user interface, suchas an icon on a task bar, and click on a graphical user interfacecorresponding to a desired open application. At least one operatingsystem, MICROSOFT® WINDOWS®, provides a keyboard shortcut wherebypressing the Alt key and the Tab key in combination (with the Alt keybeing pressed first) can effect switching between open applications.However, many users are not aware that this shortcut exists, and its usealso has drawbacks, as it requires a two-step sequential operation toactivate and an awkward position in the left hand.

[0008] Accordingly, a keyboard enabling a user to more efficientlyperform consumption and composition based activities and switch betweenopen applications, and reduce unnecessary actions for commonly performedtasks was thus needed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It is an aspect of the present invention to provide an improvedkeyboard having a functional and advantageous lateral input region.

[0010] An aspect of the present invention is to provide a new set ofinput elements on a computer keyboard designed to complement an separatepointing device such as a computer mouse. These input elements enableboth the dominant and non-dominant hand to work easily together toperform various functions, which in turn, increases user efficiency whenperforming “consumption” and “composition” tasks.

[0011] Further aspects of the invention provide a keyboard having analphanumeric section, and an input region disposed laterally from thealphanumeric section. The input region has a rotatable member or otherscrolling device and an input element for providing a Forward or a Backcommand when activated.

[0012] Other aspects of the invention provide a keyboard having analphanumeric section, and an input region disposed laterally from thealphanumeric section. The input region has a rotatable member or otherscrolling device. The input region also has a Cut key, a Copy key, and aPaste key.

[0013] In other aspects of the invention, a keyboard includes anapplication switching device configured to provide a command, whenactuated, to move between open applications or windows. The applicationswitching device is (a) independently-actuable, (b) provided withindicia indicating its function, (c) dedicated as an applicationswitching device, and/or (d) spaced from an alphanumeric section of thekeyboard.

[0014] In yet other aspects of the invention, a keyboard includes arotatable member. The rotatable member has an asymmetric outer profileand/or is frustum-shaped.

[0015] Further objects, features and other aspects of this inventionwill be understood from the following detailed description of thepreferred embodiments of this invention with reference to the attacheddrawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016]FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exemplary keyboard according to one ormore aspects of the present invention;

[0017]FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view of a region located laterally fromthe alphanumeric section of the keyboard of FIG. 1;

[0018] FIGS. 3-5 are enlarged plan views similar to FIG. 2 showingalternate embodiments of an application switching device;

[0019]FIG. 6 is a graphical user interface in the MICROSOFT® WINDOWS®operating environment showing an open or active file in a firstgraphical interface region and a plurality of graphical iconscorresponding to other open files and applications.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] As a preface to this section, a few terms as used herein aredefined.

[0021] A “key cluster” is defined as a group of keys, each of which isimmediately adjacent, or in close proximity, to at least another keywithin the cluster and set apart from other keys on the keyboard by adistance larger than the spacing between the adjacent keys in thecluster and by a portion of the keyboard housing.

[0022] A key is “labeled” as a certain type of key when it includesindicia thereon or immediately adjacent thereto corresponding to theimage to be provided or associated function to be performed when thatkey is pressed.

[0023] An “input region” is a group of input elements disposed in anarea proximal to one another. An “input zone” is an input region whereinall of the input elements are positioned such that each input element ispositioned within the natural finger extension range of the common userto be accessible by the digits of the hand when he or she is using theother input elements in the zone. Preferably, an input zone is no morethan 12.5 centimeters in length in any direction.

[0024] Exemplary keyboard designs of the present invention are shown inFIGS. 1-5 and designated by reference numeral 20. For referencepurposes, the keyboard 20 has a front edge 16 adjacent the user duringnormal use, and a back edge 17 distal from the user during normal use.Accordingly, an object is said herein to be “behind” another object whenit is between that object and the back edge 17. An object is said hereinto be “directly behind” another object when it is between that objectand the back edge 17 and at least partially located within the lateralbounds of that object extending in the front-to-back direction. Anobject is said herein to be “entirely directly behind” another objectwhen it is between that object and the back edge 17 and entirely locatedwithin the lateral bounds of that object extending in the front-to-backdirection. An object is said herein to be “in front of” another objectwhen it is between that object and the front edge 16. Further, thekeyboard 20 also has left and right edges 18 and 19. The direction“lateral” defines the general directions from the left edge 18 to theright edge 19 and from the right edge 19 to the left edge 18.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the keyboard 20 includes analphanumeric section 24, an editing section 26, a numeric section 28,and a function section 29. The alphanumeric section 24, sometimesreferred to as the QWERTY section, may include keys for each of theletters of the alphabet, each of the digits 0-9, and various punctuationsymbols. The alphanumeric section 24 may alternatively be a subset ofthese keys. The editing section 26, preferably located immediately tothe right of the alphanumeric section 24, preferably includes four arrowkeys, Delete, Home, End, PageUp, and PageDown keys. The numeric section28, is preferably to the right of the editing section 26. The numericsection 28 preferably includes digit keys 0-9, arithmetic function keys/, *, −, and +, a decimal separator key, and an Enter key. The functionsection 29 preferably includes an Escape (or Esc) key 34 and one or moregroups 38 of keys behind the alphanumeric section 24, one or more groups36 of keys behind the numeric section 28, and one or more groups 32 ofkeys behind the editing section 26. These keys preferably form alaterally extending row. The keys in this row may be standard functionkeys and/or may be command keys preferably labeled according to thecommand they perform when pressed. The keys need not be limited to thekey as labeled. Additionally, the keyboard 20 preferably includes alaterally extending row of “launch” or additional command keys 39preferably located behind the row of keys in the function section 29.

[0026] The keyboard 20 also preferably includes an input region in theform of input zone 40, which in a preferred embodiment, is locatedlaterally to the left of alphanumeric section 24. The input zone 40 hasa number of input devices including a first key group 50, a scrolldevice such as a scroll wheel 44, a second key group 60, and anapplication switching device 70. By “wheel” as used in this context, itis meant a rotatable device that rotates about a single axis. In theillustrated embodiment, the scroll wheel 44 is mounted for rotationabout an axis extending laterally relative to the keyboard 20. The wheel44 may be rotated in a common method of operation by engaging theperiphery of the wheel 44 with a thumb and/or one or more fingers, androtating the wheel 44 in a forward or a backward direction. Rotation ofthe wheel 44 can cause an image on a display to scroll relative to thedisplay screen. The scroll wheel 44 may be provided to function in anydesired manner to convert the rotational movement of the wheel 44 to anappropriate command to cause scrolling. Scroll wheels have been providedon computer mice to effect scrolling and any such arrangement may beused for sensing rotation of the wheel 44. In one arrangement, as thescroll wheel 44 is rotated, an encoder senses the rotation of an encoderwheel and delivers a corresponding signal to a host computer. Thissignal, in turn, can be used to scroll an image as is known in the art.Scrolling is helpful when a document is longer than the height of thedisplay screen and the user would like to see the entire document.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the scroll wheel 44 has an exposedportion for user manipulation that is preferably within the range of 2-5cm in width and may have of a width of 3 cm. Additionally, the wheel 44may also have a constant diameter, such as a diameter in the range of1.5-3 cm. In many embodiments, the width is greater than its diameter.In lieu of a constant diameter, the wheel 44 may have a tapered diameterand/or be frustum-shaped as illustrated in the embodiment in FIGS. 1 and2. In this illustrated embodiment, the exposed portion of the wheel 44has a diameter that decreases from one lateral end to the other. Statedin an alternative manner, the wheel 44 has an asymmetric outer profileor diameter from a lateral center line. For example, the wheel 44 has afirst diameter d1 at the lateral end proximal to the alphanumericsection 24 that tapers to a second smaller diameter d2 at the lateralend distal to the alphanumeric section 24. In one embodiment, the wheelmay have a 2.0-2.7 cm diameter at its larger lateral endd1, and a1.5-2.0 cm diameter at its smaller lateral end d2. One example of suchan embodiment would provide the wheel with a 2.5 cm diameter at itslarger lateral end d1, and a 1.9 cm diameter at its smaller lateral endd2. However, the wheel 44 may be provided with any desirable size and/ortaper. Such a profiled diameter can facilitate the interface with one ormultiple fingers of the user. For example, if the user chooses to useone, two, three, or all of the index finger, middle finger, ring finger,and/or little finger on his or her left hand, and maintain the fingersin a front-to-back orientation relative to the keyboard, the taper ofthe wheel 44 creates a profile that better corresponds to the locationof the tips of these fingers. If desired, the outer surface of the wheel44 may be preferably provided with a feature for enhancing grip such asgrooves or ribs, as schematically shown, or a high friction materialcoating, such as rubber.

[0028] In lieu of a scroll wheel 44, an alternative scrolling devicesuch as a touch pad, a slider, a D-pad, such as those used on gamecontrollers, joystick, or any other suitable input device may be used asa scrolling device to affect scrolling.

[0029] Further, the wheel 44 may be used to scroll a documenthorizontally when the document is wider than the width of the displayscreen according to known techniques such as positioning the cursor overa graphical horizontal scroll bar and rotating the scroll wheel 44.Additionally, the scroll wheel 44 may be movable in a side-to-sidemanner to affect horizontal or left and right scrolling. With such aside-to-side action, the wheel could depress internal or externalswitches actuating horizontal scrolling action. Such an embodiment maybe used and is disclosed in copending U.S. patent application Ser. No.______, filed simultaneously herewith, entitled “Input Device Includinga Wheel Assembly for Scrolling an Image in Multiple Directions,” whichis hereby incorporated by reference as to its entirety.

[0030] A raised laterally-extending portion 42 of the housing 22,referred to herein as a dividing ridge or a locating ridge, ispreferably provided on opposing lateral sides of the wheel 44, and thewheel 44 may be located in the ridge 42. This ridge 42 is a raised upperportion of the housing 22 and facilitates the user's ability to locateand manipulate the wheel 44 and adjacent input elements without visualinspection by providing tactile feedback to the user. Further, it alsofacilitates visual location of these the features by serving a visualindicator. Thus, in turn, it enables the user to remain more visuallyand mentally engaged with activity in the display while enabling “blind”location and manipulation of the wheel 44. Further, the ridge 42 helpssubdivide the input zone 40 into a first consumption region orconsumption zone 40 a and a composition region or composition zone 40 b(as shown in FIG. 2). The first consumption region or consumption zone40 a preferably includes the scroll wheel 44 and a first set 50 of keys52 and 54 on one side of the ridge 42. The composition region orcomposition zone 40 b preferably includes the scroll wheel 44, a secondset 60 of keys 62, 64, and 66, and/or an application switching device 70on the opposite side of the ridge 42 from the first set 50 of keys.

[0031] The first key group 50 preferably includes a Back key 52 and aForward key 54. The Back and Forward keys 52 and 54, when activated,will cause a Back or Forward command to be provided, respectively. Thesecommands are commonly used with an internet browser where the browserwill provide information corresponding to a web address in a list thatis immediately behind or immediately following the current web addressin the list. Each of these keys 52 and 54 are preferably located inclose proximity to the scroll wheel 44. In one embodiment, as shown,these keys 52 and 54 are each located 2.5 centimeters or less from thewheel 44 and/or 2.5 centimeters or less from each adjacent key.

[0032] The second key group 60 preferably includes a Cut key 62, a Copykey 64 and a Paste key 66. These keys 60, 62 and 64 are preferablylocated in close proximity to the scroll wheel 44. These commands arecommonly used to cut, copy, and paste information from one area in afile to another area in the file or to a different file in a well knownmanner. In one embodiment, as shown, these keys 62, 64, and 66 are eachlocated 2.5 centimeters or less from the wheel 44 and/or 2.5 centimetersor less from each other. The ordering of the keys 62, 64, and 66corresponds to the ordering of the Cut, Copy and Paste graphical iconson graphical tool bars on commonly used programs with editing features.Such ordering and spacing also are beneficial in that the Cut, Copy, andPaste keys, are placed under the ring, middle, and index fingers,respectively. This is beneficial because the relative frequency of useof these keys (Paste is the most frequently used key in the set and Cutis the least frequently used key in the set) advantageously correspondsto the relative dexterity and strength of the fingers actuating thesekeys (the index finger is the strongest and most dexterous in the set,while the ring finger is the weakest and least dexterous in the set).

[0033] The keys 52, 54, 62, 64, and 66 are also preferably labeled as oraccording to the command they perform when pressed. In a preferredarrangement, the indicia corresponding to the command is printedimmediately adjacent to or on each input element or key to indicate itsuse.

[0034] The keys 52, 54, 62, 64, and 66 may preferably be low-profilekeys as opposed to the keys in the alphanumeric section 24, the editingsection 26, the numeric section 28, and or the keys 38 behind thesesections 24, 26, and 28. That is, the upper surfaces of these keys 52,54, 62, 64, and 66 are preferably flush or slightly raised above theupper surface of the housing 22. The buttons or keys 52, 54, 62, 64, and66 may be oval-shaped as shown. Alternatively, the keys may be round,square, or any other desired shape. If desired, the keys 52, 54, 62, 64,and 66 may have the same size, shape, and/or profile as the standardalphanumeric keys or of other keys on the keyboard.

[0035] Additionally, in one arrangement, the keys 52, 54, 62, 64, and 66have an upper surface area that is preferably in the range between 50-80mm², e.g., 64 mm². However, it is recognized that they may have an uppersurface area in the range between 50 mm² to 195 mm², or they may be ofany other suitable size. Further, the keys 52, 54, 62, 64, and 66 arepreferably spaced to provide gaps between adjacent keys in each group 50and 60 within the range of 14 mm to 23 mm, e.g., 21 mm. It is recognizedthat the gaps may also be larger or smaller. It is also recognized thatany other type of key may be used.

[0036] Further, it is recognized that other input devices may be used toprovide these commands. For example, in lieu of distinct keys 52 and 54to provide Back and Forward commands, a toggle, rotatable dial, orslidable member, similar to those illustrated in FIGS. 2-4 for theapplication switching device 70, or other input device, may be used.

[0037] The application switching device 70 is preferably also includedin the input zone 40, may be any desired element or elements forswitching between open applications. However, an application switchingdevice 70, such as those depicted in the figures, may be located at anylocation on the keyboard. The application switching device 70 enablesthe user to quickly move between open applications. For example, theapplication switching device 70 may include a toggle or rocker switch 72as shown in FIG. 2. The toggle switch 72 is preferably mounted forpivotal movement relative to the housing 22. The switch 72 includesopposing first and second ends 74 and 76, each of which may be pressedto switch applications as described below. In an exemplary embodiment,the first and second ends 74 and 76 of the toggle switch 72 aregenerally oval or ovoid shaped and are connected by a center section.However, in lieu of such an arrangement, the first and second ends 74and 76 may be circular, square, rectangular, or any other desired shape.Further, the first and second ends 74 and 76 are preferably sized tohave an area ranging between 64 mm² to 195 mm², e.g., 100 mm², andspaced center-to-center by a distance ranging from 14 mm to 23 mm, e.g.,21 mm. However, it is recognized that these ends 74 and 76 may be of anydesired size and spacing.

[0038]FIG. 3 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an applicationswitching device 70. In this embodiment, the application switchingdevice 70 takes the form of a rotatable dial 78. The dial 78 ispreferably rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the upper surface ofthe housing 22 for rotation in a plane parallel to the upper surface ofthe housing 22. Preferably, sensors inside of the housing detect whenthe dial has been rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise by apredetermined amount. Any desired sensing device may be used todetermine rotation of the dial such as a multi-position switch.Additionally, the outer circumference 79 of the dial 78 is preferablyprovided with a feature for enhancing grip such as grooves, ribs, or ahigh friction material coating, such as rubber. The dial 78 may be anydesired size.

[0039]FIG. 4 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an applicationswitching device 70. In this embodiment, the application switchingdevice 70 takes the form of a slider 80. The slider 80 preferablyincludes a slot 84 in the keyboard housing 22 and a slider member 82movable within the slot 84, and more specifically, between the lateralends 86, 88 of the slot 84. Any desired sensing device, such as amulti-position switch, may be used to determine displacement of theslider member 82. The slider member 82 may be designed to facilitatemanipulation by one or more fingers of the user. In one example, theslider member 82 may have a raised center section 89 facilitatingmovement of the slider member 82 in either lateral direction.

[0040] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2-4, the movable member in theapplication switching device 70 is preferably a three-position device.That is, it has a center position, and moving the member in one of twoopposite or opposing directions can perform activation. Each of theapplication switching devices 70 in FIGS. 2-4 preferably includes one ormore biasing members, such as a spring, not shown, to bias the movablemember to its center position, so that it returns to its center positionupon release by the user. The three position movable members in FIGS.2-4 also present a beneficial design because they prevent unintendedsimultaneously activation in both directions.

[0041]FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an applicationswitching device 70. In this embodiment, the application switchingdevice 70 takes the form of two distinct buttons 96, 98. If desired, theapplication switching device 70 can take the form of a single buttonthat can switch the application in a single direction within a list ofapplications.

[0042] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, the applicationswitching device 70, whether it is composed of a single member (FIGS. 2and 4) or plural distinct members (FIG. 5), is preferably laterally(i.e., horizontally) oriented. That is, the single or multiple membersare laterally elongated or are laterally spaced. This orientation can bebeneficial because it corresponds biomechanically to the finger-handaction and because it corresponds to graphical interface action.However, the application switching device may alternatively be orientedin a different direction, such as vertical or diagonal.

[0043] Upon activation of the application switching device 70 by theappropriate method, e.g., by pivoting (FIG. 2), rotating (FIG. 3),sliding (FIG. 4), or pressing (FIG. 5), a command is sent to present agraphical interface on the display corresponding to the next (i.e.,following/forward or previous/back) open application or window in thelist.

[0044] In the exemplary embodiments as shown, the application switchingdevice 70 is independently-actuable. By “independently-actuable” it ismeant that it can function independently without the need of assistanceof other input devices. In other words, it means that the applicationswitching device 70 can be activated by a user to switch applicationswithout the need to provide additional user input, such as thesimultaneously pressing of an additional key. The application switchingdevice 70 is also preferably labeled by one or more words or symbolsproviding an indication that the corresponding input element(s) is forapplication switching. In a preferred arrangement, the word“Application” may be provided on or adjacent to the applicationswitching device 70. It is also preferred that the application switchingdevice 70 be dedicated for application switching and not be an elementusable for performing tasks. However, it is recognized that theapplication switching device 70 need not be independently-actuable,labeled, and/or dedicated for application switching.

[0045] Operation of the application switching device 70 will bedescribed in conjunction with FIG. 6 that illustrates a graphical userinterface on a display screen 100. Many operating systems, includingMICROSOFT® WINDOWS®, enables the running of multiple applications at thesame time. Examples of applications include word processors, databaseprograms, Web browsers, development tools, drawing, paint, image editingprograms, and communication programs. Applications use the services ofthe computer's operating system and may use other supportingapplications. Using a separate window for each application, the user caninteract with each application and go from one application to anotherwithout having to reinstate it. Having different information oractivities in multiple windows may also make it easier for a computeruser to work more efficiently.

[0046] In FIG. 6, the active application is a MICROSOFT® Word file,shown by a graphical user interface or window 102, and in this case,having text 104 therein. Icons 110-115 on the taskbar 120 graphicallyrepresent other currently running applications, which may be located atthe bottom of the display 100. A windowing systems built into theoperating system manages and places these applications in an order, suchas the order in which they are opened or initiated. In FIG. 6, the orderon the taskbar 120 includes four applications 110-113, the openapplication 106, and two additional applications 114-115. Applications,as used in this context, denote different program applications as wellas different application files. For example, application 113 and openapplication 106 are both MICROSOFT® Word files.

[0047] Actuating the application switching device 70 will switch theopen application to the application that is next (either following orprevious) in the list. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, by(i) pressing the right side 76 of toggle 72 (FIG. 2), (ii) rotating thedial 78 clockwise (FIG. 3), (iii) translating the slider member 82 tothe right (FIG. 4), or (iv) pressing key 98 (FIG. 5), the openapplication 106 will switch to application 114. Each successiveactuation, as described above, causes the open application to switchfrom application 114 to application 115, to application 110, toapplication 111, to application 112, to application 113, and back toapplication 106, and so on. The user may switch the open application inthe opposite direction in the list, e.g., from application 106 toapplication 113, by: (i) pressing the left side 74 of toggle 72 (FIG.2), (ii) rotating the dial 78 counter-clockwise (FIG. 3), (iii)translating the slider member 82 to the left (FIG. 4), or (iv) pressingkey 96 (FIG. 5). Each successive actuation in that direction will causethe open application to switch from application 113 to application 112,to application 111, to application 110, to application 115, toapplication 114, and back to application 106, and so on. While it ispreferred that the provided application switching device 70 provide thecapability to switch applications in both directions (bi-directional),it is recognized that an application switching device may be providedthat only provides application switching in single direction(uni-directional). It is noted that while the direction of switching ofthe multi-directional application switching devices 70 preferably causeswitching in the direction as described above, it could be programmed toswitch applications in the opposite direction. While the switching ofthe applications/windows has been described based on a chronologicallyordering system (as opened) that exists on some common operatingsystems, the application switching device could be used to switchapplications/windows regardless of the ordering system used by theoperating system.

[0048] The input zone 40 on the computer keyboard 20 provides a userwith a set of input elements that can be used to cooperate with anexternal pointing device, such as a mouse. This enables the dominant andnon-dominant hands to work together to perform various functions, whichin turn, makes “consumption” and “composition” tasks more efficient, andmakes reaching for the mouse unnecessary to perform some actions. In oneadvantage, the elements on the input zone 40 can be used by thenon-mouse hand (i.e., the non-dominant hand) of the user while theexternal pointing device may be used by the mouse hand (i.e., thedominant hand). Thus, it provides a palette of tools so that grossactions can be performed by the non-dominant hand to complement fineactions being performed by the dominant hand on a computer mouse.

[0049] The Forward and Back buttons 52 and 54 in combination with thescrolling device, e.g., wheel 44, in close proximity enhances the“consumption” aspect of using the keyboard. In operation, the user hasthe option to select documents, web pages, or other items with thedominant hand (e.g., the right hand), and with the non-dominant hand(e.g., the left hand) the user may (a) change the view of selectionoptions using the scrolling device, e.g., wheel 44, and (b) move betweenweb pages with the Forward and Back buttons 52 and 54.

[0050] The Cut, Copy, and Paste keys 62, 64, and 66 in combination withthe scrolling device, e.g., wheel 44, and the application switchingdevice 70 in close proximity enhances the “composition” aspect of usingthe keyboard. Thus in operation, the user may search and select portionsof text, graphical objects, content of cells in spreadsheet, or otheritems with the dominant hand (e.g., the right hand), and with thenon-dominant hand (e.g., the left hand) the user may (a) change the viewof selection using the scrolling device to find text or object ofinterest, (b) Cut, Copy, and Paste items using dedicated keys 62, 64,and 66 in the region, (c) switch between open windows or applicationsusing the application switching device 70, and (d) repeat the stepsduring any creation or editing experience.

[0051] The relative locations between keys, key clusters, rows, andkeyboard sections are preferably as shown in the figures. Thus, forexample, while not specifically itemized, it is apparent from thisspecification that the Forward key 54 in the exemplary embodiment shownis entirely directly behind the Paste Key 66. Further, in the preferredembodiment, the entire input zone 40 is preferably, but not necessarily,less than or equal to 5 or 6 cm laterally and less than or equal to 8,9, or 10 cm front-to-back, resulting in an overall area of less than orequal to 40, 45, 48, 50, 54, or 60 cm². The size of the “consumption”input region, e.g., the first group of keys 50 and the scroll device 44,is preferably, but not necessarily, less than or equal to 4 or 5 cmlaterally and less than or equal to 4, 5, or 6 cm front-to-back,resulting in an overall area of less than or equal to 16, 20, 24, 25, or30 cm². The size of the “composition” input region, e.g., the secondgroup of keys 60, the scroll device 44, and the application switchingdevice 70, is preferably, but not necessarily, less than or equal to 5or 6 cm laterally and less than or equal to 7, 8, or 9 cm front-to-back,resulting in an overall area of less than or equal to 35, 40, 42, 45,48, or 54 cm².

[0052] It is recognized that in use, the keyboard 20 would preferably becoupled to a system, such as, but not necessarily, a computer includinga processor and software to run the application programs. The keys forthe keyboard 20 may be operable to provide the desired commands to thesystem according to any known arrangement. Further, while the keyboard20 in the figures is shown as being of the type physically separatedfrom a computer or appliance, it is recognized that the keyboard may bestructurally integrated into a computer, such as a laptop computer, oran appliance or other device. Additionally, while the keys as shown arepreferably of standard size and shape for computer keyboards, it isrecognized that the herein-described invention shall be limited solelyby the claims appended hereto.

1. A keyboard comprising: an alphanumeric section; and an input region,said input region disposed laterally from said alphanumeric section,said input region having an input element providing at least one of aForward command and a Back command when activated, and a rotatablewheel.
 2. The keyboard of claim 1, said input element being a Forwardkey, said input region further comprising a Back key positioned adjacentsaid Forward key.
 3. The keyboard of claim 2, said input region furtherhaving at least one of a Cut key, a Copy key, and a Paste key.
 4. Thekeyboard of claim 2, said input region further having a Cut key, a Copykey, and a Paste key.
 5. The keyboard of claim 4, wherein said rotatablewheel is disposed between said Forward and Back keys and said Cut, Copy,and Paste keys.
 6. The keyboard of claim 2, further comprising an upperhousing portion with a raised ridge positioned adjacent said rotatablewheel.
 7. The keyboard of claim 1, wherein said rotatable wheel has awidth along a rotatable axis, and a diameter, said width being largerthan said diameter.
 8. The keyboard of claim 1, wherein said inputregion is laterally disposed to the left of said alphanumeric section.9. The keyboard of claim 1, said input region further having anapplication switching device.
 10. The keyboard of claim 9, wherein saidapplication switching device includes a member movable for actuation inopposing directions.
 11. The keyboard of claim 1, wherein said rotatablewheel includes first and second sides and a diameter at each said side,wherein said diameter of said wheel is greater at the first side thanthe second side.
 12. A keyboard comprising: an alphanumeric section; andan input region, said input region disposed laterally from saidalphanumeric section, said input region having a Cut key, a Copy key, aPaste key, and a rotatable wheel.
 13. The keyboard of claim 12, whereinsaid rotatable wheel is disposed behind said Cut, Copy, and Paste keys.14. The keyboard of claim 12, said input region further having anapplication switching device.
 15. The keyboard of claim 14, wherein saidinput region occupies an area of less than 50 mm².
 16. The keyboard ofclaim 14, wherein said application switching device includes a membermovable for actuation in multiple directions.
 17. The keyboard of claim13, said input region further having an application switching device,said application switching device substantially disposed in front ofsaid Cut, Copy, and Paste keys.
 18. A keyboard comprising: anindependently-actuable application switching device, said applicationswitching device configured to provide a command, when actuated, to movebetween open applications.
 19. The keyboard of claim 18, furthercomprising an alphanumeric section, wherein said application switchingdevice is spaced from the alphanumeric section.
 20. The keyboard ofclaim 19, wherein said application switching device is movable foractuation in opposing directions.
 21. The keyboard of claim 20, whereinsaid application switching device comprises a toggle switch.
 22. Thekeyboard of claim 20, wherein said application switching devicecomprises a rotatable dial.
 23. The keyboard of claim 20, wherein saidapplication switching device comprises a laterally slidable member. 24.The keyboard of claim 18, wherein said application switching deviceincludes two discrete spaced buttons.
 25. The keyboard of claim 18,wherein said application switching device includes only a single button.26. The keyboard of claim 18, wherein said application switching deviceis biased toward a center position and permits activation in opposingdirections.
 27. A keyboard comprising: an alphanumeric section; anapplication switching device, said application switching device beingspaced from said alphanumeric section and configured to provide acommand, when actuated, to move between open applications.
 28. Thekeyboard of claim 27, wherein said application switching device ismovable for actuation in opposing directions.
 29. The keyboard of claim28, wherein said application switching device comprises a toggle switch.30. The keyboard of claim 28, wherein said application switching devicecomprises a rotatable dial.
 31. The keyboard of claim 28, wherein saidapplication switching device comprises a laterally slidable member. 32.The keyboard of claim 27, wherein said application switching device isbiased toward a center position and permits activation in opposingdirections.
 33. The keyboard of claim 27, wherein said applicationswitching device includes two discrete spaced buttons.
 34. A keyboardcomprising: an application switching device, said application switchingdevice labeled with an indicium indicating its function and configuredto provide a command, when actuated, to move between open applications.35. The keyboard of claim 34, wherein said application switching deviceis independently-actuable.
 36. A keyboard comprising: an applicationswitching device, said application switching device being dedicated asan application switching device and configured to provide a command,when actuated, to move between open applications.
 37. The keyboard ofclaim 36, wherein said application switching device isindependently-actuable and labeled with an indicium indicating itsfunction.
 38. The keyboard of claim 37, further comprising analphanumeric section, said application switching device being spacedlaterally from said alphanumeric section.
 39. The keyboard of claim 38,further comprising an alphanumeric section, further comprising one of aBack key and a Forward key positioned behind said application switchingdevice.
 40. The keyboard of claim 38, further comprising an alphanumericsection, further comprising one of a Cut key, a Copy key, and a Pastekey positioned in front of said application switching device.
 41. Akeyboard comprising: an alphanumeric section; and an input region, saidinput region disposed laterally from said alphanumeric section, saidinput region having an input element providing at least one of a Forwardcommand and a Back command when activated, and a scrolling devicepositioned adjacent said input element.
 42. The keyboard of said claim41, wherein said input region has occupies an area of less than 30 mm².43. A keyboard comprising: an alphanumeric section; and an input region,said input region disposed laterally from said alphanumeric section,said input region having a Cut key, a Copy key, a Paste key, and ascrolling element proximate to said keys.
 44. A keyboard comprising arotatable wheel having an asymmetric outer profile.
 45. The keyboard ofsaid claim 44, said rotatable wheel configured to provide a scrollingcommand when rotated.
 46. A keyboard comprising: a rotatable wheelhaving a width, first and second sides, and an outer diameter at eachsaid side, said outer diameter being larger at said first side than saidsecond side.
 47. A keyboard comprising a rotatable frustum-shapedmember.
 48. The keyboard of claim 47, further comprising at least one ofa Cut key, a Copy key, and a Paste key located within 3 cm of saidrotatable frustum-shaped member.
 49. The keyboard of claim 47, furthercomprising a keyboard upper housing having a planar section and raisedridge, said rotatable frustum-shaped member located in said raisedridge.